News : Benton County Derecho Storm Resource Group opens in Downtown Vinton

The old yogurt shop, the former Clingman Pharmacy or 200 W 4th St in Vinton is the location of the new site specifically set up for the Benton County Derecho Storm Resource Group. At this time the group is collecting supplies or donations for families that need a helping hand at this time.

There is not an account set up for donations, but they can be made through the Benton County Coalition, or cash or gift cards can be dropped off at the location.

* If you need items delivered PLEASE message the page. We have volunteers who are "on call" to deliver items.

* A donation tote is placed outside the front door for donations dropped off during the hours the building is closed.

* We have had large reusable ice packs donated. We are keeping them in the freezer until they are needed. Reach out to us if you would like some!

* We know many are still without water or electricity. We have a list of people who are willing to wash/dry laundry and offer their homes for showers.

*Blessed Hope Community Church has also offered use of their showers for families to utilize.

*Again, we know asking can be uncomfortable however we are all in this together. People WANT to help!

While this donation site is in Vinton, donations will be distributed wherever there is a need. Every small town in Benton County was hit hard and the group hopes to make sure they are not overlooked.

Donations needed include the following:

Diapers- Variety of sizes

Wipes

Formula

Bottles of Water

Ice/Icepacks

Extension Cords

Flashlights/batteries

Gas Cans

Fuel

Bar & Chain Oil

2-cycle/4-cycle Oil

Non-perishable Foods (Granola bars, chips, snack food, fruit snacks, can food)

Coolers

Charcoal

Hygiene items

Gift cards to local gas stations/grocery store/Theisen's/Sams

To contact the group, reach out to their Facebook page, please message first if possible or contact Tyra McAbee at 515-953-8146 or email tyralaree@gmail.com

The group has partnered with the Benton County Disaster Recovery Coalition. Cash/check donations can be made out to Benton County Disaster Recovery Coalition and mailed to P.O box 125 Vinton, Iowa 52349 or dropped off at the donation site.